The Langley 0.3-Meter Transonic Cryogenic Tunnel (0.3-m TCT) was placed in operation at NASA's Langley Research Center in 1973. This facility was the world's first cryogenic pressure tunnel. The 0.3-m TCT can operate from ambient to cryogenic temperatures at absolute pressures ranging from about 1 to 6 atmospheres. Three major test section concepts were developed and refined in this unique facility. The 0.3-m TCT was a leader in the evolution of cryogenic pressure wind tunnel test techniques, instrumentation, control strategy and model technology. An overview is presented of the evolution and 15 years of experience with the 0.3-m TCT. The historical background concentrates on the technical challenges and proof-of-concept validations during the establishment of the first cryogenic pressure wind tunnel. The various test section concepts are described. Highlights of operational experience and test results determined from these first time exploratory tests are presented. Operating costs and effective test techniques for the 0.3-m TCT are discussed. Finally, current and future plans for the facility are presented.
NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) Langley 0.3-Meter Transonic Cryogenic Tunnel
1989
21 pages
Report
No indication
English
Laboratory & Test Facility Design & Operation , Test Facilities & Equipment , Cryogenic wind tunnels , Cryogenics , Transonic wind tunnels , Flight simulation , Histories , Test chambers , Airfoils , Boundary layer control , Cryogenic temperature , Operating costs , Rangefinding , Wind tunnel apparatus